Poor oral health is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. A privately sponsored study has confirmed that the bacteria that cause gum disease are present in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, not only in their mouths. The study finds that in mice, the bacteria trigger brain changes typical of the disease.
If the findings hold up, do they mean that everyone with gum disease-- nearly 50% of the U.S. adult population--will develop Alzheimer's? Not necessarily. But if healthy people want to stay on the safe side and potentially reduce the risk, the main conclusion is to Brush and Floss daily.
AUTHOR
Dr. Itskov
